Powershot s1 IS or Lumix FZ 3

[novus]

My budget (below $375 including necessary accessories) constrains me to the low or older model-end of the extended zoom camera spectrum.

Finally, it has come down to the s1 Is and the Lumix FZ 3 both of which have their good and bad points. (The s1 IS for instance lacks AF-assist, while the Fz 3 lacks manual focus. Which, in low-light conditions would be best to have? Manual focus or AF-assist)

Another snagging point about the S1 IS is its reported lower image quality. Is it that bad? Is the FZ 3 much better?

I really need the help

thanks

[PhilR.]

IMO, focus assist light is more important than manual focus. I've taken focused shots in total blackness with my FZ3. Manual focus would not have been of any benefit, since I couldn't see anything to focus on in the first place. I have yet to encounter any situation where the lack of manual focus was a hinderance.

Both are very nice cameras, so you can't go wrong with either. Your question has come up many times in the past, and the answers always come down to the following: if you need a good movie mode, get the S1. Otherwise, get the Panny...

PhilR.